a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization Parent/PLAYER Handbook

Transcription

1 a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization Parent/PLAYER Handbook

2 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club Table of Contents MISSION STATEMENT... 2 CORE VALUES... 2 CLUB HISTORY... 2 BOARD OF DIRECTORS... 3 COMMITMENT... 4 TEAM LEVELS... 6 SUCCESS BEGINS WITH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE... 7 REQUIRED PAPERWORK... 9 FUNDRAISING FINANCIAL AID INVALID CREDIT CARD & RETURNED CHECKS PLAYER'S RULES AND POLICIES HARRASSMENT POLICY from USAV PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE PARENT'S RULES AND POLICIES USAV SPECTATOR/PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT USAV 10 RULES FOR PARENTS OF ATHLETES GRIEVANCE POLICY & PROCEDURES HELPFUL TOURNAMENT HINTS FOR NEW VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS USAV PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE PLAYER/PARENT HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 1 of 30

3 MISSION STATEMENT Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club is a non-profit volleyball club dedicated to... offering affordable opportunities to learn, excel, and compete in the sport of volleyball helping all players reach their highest potential as volleyball players assisting college-bound players with the recruiting process providing training by highly experienced and qualified coaches developing values that foster leadership on and off the court...responsibility, selfdiscipline, cooperation, conflict resolution, teamwork, and sportsmanship CORE VALUES Provide high quality training and competitive opportunities for all levels of development. Provide solid development of fundamental skills. Provide an environment for athletes to mature, to increase their self-confidence, and to hone their teamwork and sportsmanship skills. Provide first class communication with players, parents, coaches, and club representatives. Provide opportunities to improve our community and expand our services. CLUB HISTORY Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club was established in In 1984, Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club was among the four (4) clubs that founded the Florida Region of USA Volleyball. In 2004, Southwest Sunset received the Florida Region s Most Improved Club award, and Steve Harrell (Club Director at the time) was honored with the Outstanding Club Director award. Beginning in 2009, Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club began developmental, satellite programs in surrounding areas. In 2011, Southwest Sunset began leasing their own facility for all club activities. Southwest Sunset, being one of the oldest clubs in the state, is a cornerstone of volleyball in our region and still continues to grow and evolve. Partnered with Nike and Lids Team Sports in SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 2 of 30

4 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club As of June 2015: Heather Creamer, President Justin Altman, Vice-President and Club Director Jamie Dunn, Secretary SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 3 of 30

5 COMMITMENT Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club Congratulations! You have been selected to play on one of Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club's teams. We want to make sure you are aware of the responsibilities that come with this honor and what Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club (SWSVB) will provide in return. SWSVB is committed to offering volleyball programs to all ages and levels. It is our intention to give each player the chance to work with and be mentored by high quality coaches, to learn valuable life lessons, and to develop lifelong friendships. I. Your Commitment A. Non-Refundable Financial Commitment 1. Nike Level Team (national travel) 2. Swoosh Level Team (FL region travel) 3. Rec League (local) 4. Sunrise League (developmental / practice level) 5. See our website, for pricing. II. What is Included in Club Fees? A. High Quality Coaching 1. Coaching Registrations 2. Coaching Fees B. Administration Fees, Facility Costs, Insurance, General Liability, Website Fees, etc. C. Equipment: Volleyballs, Ball Carts, Net Systems, Sport Court, etc. D. Gym Practice Time 1. Nike Teams = 3 times per week 2. Swoosh Teams = 2 times per week 3. Rec League = 1 time per week 4. Sunrise League = 1-2 times per week E. Uniforms 1. Spandex = 2 (travel teams only) 2. Practice T-Shirts = 1-2 F. Tournament Entry Fees 1. Nike Teams = 8-9 tournaments (includes 2 National Qualifiers) 2. Swoosh Teams (12 & younger) = 3 in-region (FL) tournaments 3. Swoosh Teams (13 & older) = 4-6 in-region (FL) tournaments 4. Rec League = 1 match per week, if possible 5. Sunrise League = 1-2 local scrimmages, if possible SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 4 of 30

6 COMMITMENT cont'd. Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club III. Additional Expenses (not included in club fee) A. Uniform Package (new player) 1. Includes 2 jerseys, backpack, warm-up jacket, & warm-up pants 2. Player keeps jerseys & uses each year B. Replacement Uniforms (as needed) C. Travel to Tournaments (including airfare, gasoline, and hotel) and Food Parents are responsible for their child's travel and eating arrangements D. Optional Private Instruction/Lessons E. Camps and Clinics F. All Expenses AFTER the Regional Tournament (if your child's team goes to national tournaments) G. All Expenses to Extend the Season SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 5 of 30

7 TEAM LEVELS Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club 1. Nike: This is our top team in each age division that travels nationally a. 3 practices per week + special sessions b. Play time is not guaranteed c. 8-9 out-of-town tournaments (includes out-of state Qualifier) 2. Nike Air: This is our 2 nd team in each age division that travels within the Florida region with the possibility to travel nationally a. 2-3 practices per week + special sessions b. Play time is not guaranteed c. 8-9 out-of-town tournaments (includes in-state Qualifier) 3. Swoosh (12 & younger): This is our intermediate team in each age division and travels within the Florida region a. 2 practices per week b. 3 in-region (FL) tournaments 4. Swoosh (13 & older): This is our intermediate team in each age division and travels within the Florida region a. 2 practices per week b. 4-6 in-region (FL) tournaments 5. Rec League: This is our local league for developing or improving skills a. 1 practice per week b. 1 local match per week, if possible 6. Sunrise League: This is our beginner/developmental practice league a. 1-2 practices per week b. 1-2 local scrimmages, if possible SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 6 of 30

8 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club SUCCESS BEGINS WITH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club is a program you can be proud of, and we work hard to maintain and continue this tradition. In order to make this happen, a positive commitment from administrators, coaches, players, and parents is required. Our COACHING STAFF must be committed to be informed of the latest techniques, strategies, and fundamentals of the game. They must have the ability to motivate our players to their maximum level of performance, patience, and the ability to communicate with positive reinforcement. The coaching staff must assist each player to achieve the goals established by the player. PLAYERS must be committed to the program as established by the coaching staff and to practice. They must play with competitive attitudes and maintain good sportsmanship at all times. PARENTS must be committed to the program as established by the coaching staff and to practice. Parents must maintain a positive attitude toward the program and good sportsmanship at all times. Parents should become knowledgeable of the game, so they can understand how the sport is played and appreciate the efforts of ALL the players. It is extremely important to our program goals that coaches, players, and parents maintain a positive attitude. We can accomplish our goals if all of us believe in and are committed to the same system. Some of the most common complaints heard from parents are: My child is on the wrong team -- This generally means that the player is not on what is considered the "number one" team. Methods used to assign players to teams are based on an evaluation conducted in a professional manner, consensus of three or more qualified individuals, and needs of a team. If you think a mistake has been made, please discuss with Director and Head Coach. Please do not involve the player. My child is not playing the right position -- Often, a player is the shining star on a high school or middle school team at a particular position and is not playing that position at SWSVB. There are several reasons for this. First, you have to remember that the competition within SWSVB is a lot stronger than on school teams; therefore, the competition for each position is more intense than in a school environment where the number of skilled players is limited. Second, the coach may have a particular need at a certain position and the player is the only one with the requisite skills to fill that need. In any event, talk to the coach first about any concern you may have and then support the coach s decision. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 7 of 30

9 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club SUCCESS BEGINS WITH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE cont'd. NOTE: Do not, under any circumstance, corner the coach at a tournament. A meeting time should be scheduled to discuss such a matter. SWSVB requires a 24-hour rule for parents to talk to coaches about issues with his/her child s playing time, team, etc. My child is not playing enough This can be a common question or complaint. When playing for SWSVB at the elite level, players will not always play the same amount of time, and we cannot provide a guarantee of playing time. SWSVB does provide a guarantee of the right to practice with players of equal or better ability and, through hard work, to improve skill levels and to compete for the opportunity to play. Playing time is earned, not awarded. Negative comments directed to other parents, coaches, and players concerning offensive schemes, defensive schemes, players positions, who is playing, etc. or providing excuses to players for poor performances have no place in our program. Help maintain an excellent program by supporting coaches and players with a positive attitude. NOTE: Repetitive complaining to the athlete(s) or to a third party that interferes with the club s efforts to pursue its stated mission and purpose may be a cause, in the sole determination of the club, to ask the member to resign. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 8 of 30

10 REQUIRED PAPERWORK Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club Most forms can be found on the Tryout Info page at and can be filled out on your computer then printed. Online registration is also available on the Tryout Info page. Before Tryouts: Make copy of your birth certificate Register online (renew or join) and print out two (2) copies of Membership Card...one for you and one for the club...for: 1. AAU at (All participants) 2. USAV Florida at (Nike & Swoosh Teams) Bring to Tryouts: Completed Player Information Sheet* Completed USAV Medical Release Form (notarized form) Copy of AAU Membership Card Copy of USAV Membership Card Copy of Birth Certificate Signed Waiver/Liability Release* Tryout Fee (Cash, Check, Money Order) To Accept a Team Position: Once you accept a team position at SWSVB, you must provide a credit card to be placed on file and pay a deposit (cash, check, money order, or credit card). See Pricing Summary page at for details. Sign the current Participation and Payment Contract Signed Athletic Code* Sign the USAV Commitment Form (available beginning November 1 st ) Sign Disney Waiver, if applicable Log into USAV Florida at and choose Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club as your club of choice. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT! Read this Handbook in its entirety and sign the Parent/Player Handbook Acknowledgment form*. *This form can be completed with Online Registration. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 9 of 30

11 FUNDRAISING Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club is committed to giving each individual the opportunity to excel in the sport of volleyball. A quality program is expensive, in terms of commitment, time, and money. The directors and staff are committed to the goal that no deserving athlete shall be deprived the benefits of SWSVB for lack of funds. SWSVB already has a monthly payment schedule but, if adjustments need to be made on an individual basis, we are more than willing to work with parents on an adjusted payment plan or on different fundraising ideas to make the club charges more manageable. There are various options for making money to offset some of the annual club fees. Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization; therefore, all donations are tax deductible. However, funds raised under the name of SWSVB cannot be returned to the athlete at any time. Fundraising money is to be used strictly for expenses incurred by the individual athlete, not the athlete s family. If funds remain in an athlete s account at the conclusion of the season, they will be transferred to the next year. If a player graduates or does not return, the funds remaining in the account are transferred to a general operational account for use at the staff s discretion. SWSVB fundraising is not a team effort. Only those who participate and work for the money will benefit from the funds raised. ALL fundraising ideas for each season will first go thru the Directors. If you have any questions on fundraising or have ideas on fundraising opportunities, please contact Club Director via . Help us support our scholarship fund and give athletes the opportunity to play at the collegiate level! FINANCIAL AID We know that financial assistance is necessary for some families in order to have your son/daughter participate in our club program. Please understand that our process is limited to a budget that is projected based on club fundraisers and grants, so Financial Aid may not be available each year. You are required to commit to working at our gym one (1) hour for every $100 received in Financial Aid and actively seek donations through sponsorships. Our process also has to remain fair and equitable to all youth. We do not want to jeopardize any prospective student athlete s future eligibility at a collegiate institution by providing him/her with financial assistance based on athletic ability. NCAA and most other collegiate governing bodies for athletics require that an amateur athlete not be compensated for athletic ability from a sport organization. Therefore, our process has to be open to all members and subject to financial need which protects the amateur status of our volleyball club players. We use government poverty thresholds as a baseline, but also take into consideration number of SWSVB players registered from a single family and extenuating hardship circumstances that impact a family s ability to pay for club fees. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 10 of 30

12 FINANCIAL AID cont d. Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club Deadline for Financial Aid Applications is two (2) weeks prior to the first practice of the respective player. There is NO 100% financial aid. SWSVB requires all applicants to pay at least the $30 tryout fee and the Uniform Package Fee (since players keep their uniforms). SWSVB also requires each financial recipient to send out sponsorship letters and try to raise part of their club fees. Sponsorship letters can be found on our website at The application will be forwarded to the Board of Directors, and all Tryout/Registration Forms must have been completed. If the application is denied in full or part, then the payment plan information detailed in the Financial Aid Application will be reviewed and discussed with the family. INVALID CREDIT CARD & RETURNED CHECKS In the event that a credit card needs to be charged and is later found to be invalid, an additional $35.00 fee will be added to the bill. If the payment is NOT made in full within ten (10) days, your child will be ineligible to practice or play until the payment is settled with the SWSVB President or Club Director. Returned checks will be charged a $35.00 reprocessing fee. Once again, if not paid in full within ten (10) days of the returned check notice, your child will be ineligible until the full payment is settled with the SWSVB President or Club Director. All payments should be sent to: Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club 847 SE 9 th Terrace, Unit A Cape Coral, FL Payment questions can be directed to: hcreamer@swsvb.com or (239) SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 11 of 30

13 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club PLAYER'S RULES AND POLICIES Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club is an AAU and USAV program. We expect our athletes to act in a courteous manner throughout the season both locally and as they travel. Athletes disobeying either Club or USAV/AAU rules or acting in a manner deemed inappropriate by the staff, may be disciplined or expelled from SWSVB by the staff. If expulsion from the program is required, there will be no financial compensation, and future Club fees will no longer be due. PLAYING TIME: Every member of SWSVB will be offered training through practices. Playing time is based on practice and event performance of the athlete as viewed by the team coach and the SWSVB coaching staff. Court time at major competitions (such as Regionals, National Qualifiers, and/or Nationals) will be geared toward the best lineup. Local court time will be more evenly distributed. Equal playing time is NOT guaranteed. DRUGS & ALCOHOL: Any member found to be in the possession of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs on the premises of any practice or tournament facility will be immediately expelled from the program. ATTENDANCE: Players must call their coach at least one (1) hour before practice if they will not be in attendance. Athletes who miss practice are missing valuable information and training time and, potentially, may have their playing time decreased. To emphasize player responsibility, we ask that parents DO NOT call on behalf of their child (with the exception of the 10 and under parents/players) unless the player is unable to. UNIFORMS: To promote team and program unity, all athletes are required to wear practice uniforms at all practices and full game uniforms at all tournaments. Team uniforms do NOT include jewelry, wristbands, or headbands. Pants or shorts are to be worn over spandex outside of the gym. Shoes are to be worn at all times. Since we are a Nike Club, all uniform apparel, except for shoes and socks, must be the Nike brand. SAFETY: To ensure the safety of fans and spectators and to prevent damage at playing sites, ball handling will only be done in the gymnasium. TRANSPORTATION: Transportation to all practices and competitions is the responsibility of the players and their parents.. TOURNAMENT POLICIES: Teams will arrive at the playing site one (1) hour prior to playing the first match and fortyfive (45) minutes for refereeing. All players are required to wear SWSVB issued attire upon entering and leaving the gym. All players must match practice t-shirts at tournaments or any other volleyball related function. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 12 of 30

14 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club TOURNAMENT POLICIES cont'd.: No food or drinks (other than water or sports drinks) are allowed in most gyms. Florida Region rules allow a tournament director to penalize teams if parents and/or supporters ignore this rule. All athletes are expected to attend every tournament. If an athlete cannot be at a tournament, your child must inform the coach as soon as she/he knows they will be absent, so that the coach can make appropriate changes to practices or lineups. It is the athlete s (not the parent s) responsibility to make arrangements with the coach. Athletes may NOT leave a tournament site until excused by the coach. OFFICIATING: To ensure fairness in distributing officiating duties, every player will complete all "USAV Juniors" officiating and scoring courses online. Required courses are: Line Judge Scorer 2 nd Referee Libero Control In addition, players may leave a tournament only after all refereeing duties have been completed and permission has been obtained from the team coach. Instructions for Referee Training can be found on our website under the VB Info tab. TRAVEL: When teams travel, players will stay with their parents and/or teammates. It is the responsibility of the parents and players to make travel and hotel arrangements. SWSVB will block rooms at hotels to insure rooms are available. FOR SELECT TOURNAMENTS, PARENTS AND PLAYERS MUST STAY AT REQUIRED TOURNAMENT HOTELS. We encourage parents to travel with the team to different events; however, we understand that this is an extra expense to the family. If attending, please remember the team is at the event to PLAY VOLLEYBALL not vacation. PRACTICE POLICIES: Always be on Lombardi Time for practice (at least 15 minutes early). We have limited gym space and to avoid another team s practice starting late or your practice running short, every athlete must be dressed, warmed up, and ready to go at the scheduled practice time. Volleyball shoes should be carried into practice and tournament venues and only worn for practice and games to assure that the shoes last longer and our practice facilities remain clean. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 13 of 30

15 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club PRACTICE POLICIES cont d.: All athletes are required to wear SWSVB Nike practice apparel to practice. If your team has more than one color shirt, make sure that everyone knows which color to wear on each practice day. Each team is required to wear the same practice t-shirt at practice. If an athlete is late arriving to a practice, your child must change into her/his practice gear, report to her/his coach, and explain why she/he is late. Your child's coach, in his/her sole discretion, will determine any corrective action to be taken. An injured athlete who attends school is expected to attend SWSVB practice, even if your child cannot physically participate in practice. This policy is to offer support to your child's team, assist the coach if needed, and be knowledgeable of all team information. Transportation to practice is your responsibility. If your child has to wait after practice for someone to pick her/him up, your child's coach is required to stay with her/him. In this situation, the coach has the authority to charge a Twenty-Five Dollar ($25) fee for each half hour. Coaches are not babysitters. Please do not take advantage of the fact that he/she is required to stay with your child if you are late. Practices are for the athlete to improve skills. They will get out of it what they put into it. Players should always give 100% of the energy they have at that moment in practice. Remember You play how you practice! HARRASSMENT POLICY from USAV PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE Unwanted Contact or Harassment of Players: (See Section III. Literature used for the Recruiting of Players) Any player or parent has the right to stop the recruiting process at any time. The decision to do this does not need to be based on harassment alone. If a player or parent has made the decision to play for a particular club long before the beginning of the season and wishes not to be contacted by other clubs, they should convey that to any person contacting them about joining another club -- preferably in writing. At that time, the party who contacted the player is obligated to cease all contact. If the contact continues, by any agent of the club, the player or parent should contact the Executive Director or the Commissioner. The Florida Region will gladly step in to protect its members from unwanted contact or harassment. However, the family or player must come forward with a written, formal complaint on which the region can take action. Verbal complaints are not sufficient to take any punitive action. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 14 of 30

16 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club PARENT'S RULES AND POLICIES Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club is a well-known club. Just as we expect certain actions of our players, we also ask the same courteousness and politeness from our players parents. Parents should refrain from any unsportsmanlike conduct that could embarrass the club or penalize a team. Parents disobeying Club or USAV/AAU rules or acting in a manner deemed inappropriate by the staff may be expelled from SWSVB by the Staff. Parents will not be permitted to discuss the coaching philosophies with the coaches at a tournament. If a parent is upset about something with a team, he/she will abide by the 24 Hour Rule and wait 24 hours before discussing the matter with the coach. If further problems arise, please contact the Club Director(s) who may schedule a meeting with the Coach, Directors, and parents all together. (Please see Grievance Policy & Procedures.) OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP (suggestions, not requirements): Team Parent: Basically, a team representative...will make sure the coach has everything needed from the team s parents and organize a schedule for nourishment at tournaments. The coach will determine the preferred method (i.e., packing food, going out as a team, or eating at the hotel or venue). Please note that the food parent is an organizer not the financier. Travel Parent: In charge of helping the coach when traveling in whatever way they can. Telephone Parent: In charge of making sure each member of the team has a list of everyone s contact information. In addition, this parent will be in charge of contacting all the parents if the coach needs information to the team spread quickly. Club Volunteer: Help SWSVB while hosting tournaments, events, etc. Video Parent: Generally for 15 and older teams. A parent that will tape matches for the team. Someone that the team can count on to get game footage of the entire team for parents to make individual recruiting tapes and/or to be utilized for training purposes by the coach. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 15 of 30

17 Florida Region of USA Volleyball SPECTATOR/PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT (This legally binding document may be reproduced as often as necessary) IMPORTANT NOTICE ENTRY TO THIS PRIVATELY SANCTIONED EVENT IS GRANTED AS A COURTESY. IF YOU ENTER/ATTEND THIS, OR ANY FLORIDA REGION SANCTIONED EVENT, YOU AGREE TO ABIDE BY THE FOLLOWING CODE OF CONDUCT GUIDELINES: I WILL: 1. I WILL abide by the official rules of USA Volleyball. 2. I WILL display good sportsmanship at all times. 3. I WILL encourage my child and his/her team, regardless of the outcome on the court. 4. I WILL educate myself on the unique rules of this facility. 5. I WILL honor the rules of the host and the host facility. 6. I WILL generate goodwill by being polite and respectful to those around me at this event. 7. I WILL direct my child to speak directly with his/her coach when coaching decisions are made that may be confusing or unclear. 8. I WILL redirect any negative comments from others to the respective Event Director or Program Administrator. 9. I WILL direct all concerns regarding officials to the Head Coach or Club Director for my team/club as opposed to contacting the Head Official directly. 10. I WILL immediately notify the Event Director and/or Program Administrator in the event that I witness any illegal activity. 11. I WILL support the policies and guidelines of the team/club that I represent. 12. I WILL acknowledge effort and good performance, remembering that all of the players in this event are amateur athletes. 13. I WILL model exemplary spectator behavior while attending this event. 14. I WILL respect the history and tradition of the sport of volleyball by being a good ambassador. I WILL NOT: 1. I WILL NOT harass or intimidate the officials. 2. I WILL NOT coach my child from the bleachers and/or sidelines. 3. I WILL NOT criticize my child s coach or his/her teammates. 4. I WILL NOT participate in any game or game-like activities unless I have a current membership card with the Florida Region. 5. I WILL NOT bring and/or carry any firearms at any Florida Region event. 6. I WILL NOT bring, purchase, or consume alcohol at any Youth/Junior volleyball event. Note: Any violation of this Code of Conduct will result in you being asked to leave the site/facility, and may result in you possibly being banned from attending future Florida Region sanctioned events. The Event Director has the final say regarding their individual event. Local law enforcement will be contacted if necessary to resolve any disputes or altercations. Questions or concerns may be directed to the Florida Region office. Florida Region of USA Volleyball, Inc US Highway 441 Eustis, FL Steve Bishop, Executive Director Mary Andrew, Commissioner Tel: (352) Fax: (352) Web:

18 1. Make sure your children know that win or lose, scared or heroic, you love them, appreciate their efforts, and are not disappointed in them. This will allow them to do their best without fear of failure. Be the person in their lives they can look to for constant, positive encouragement. 2. Try your best to be completely honest about your child's athletic capability, competitive attitude, sportsmanship, and actual skill level. 3. Be helpful, but don't coach them on the way to the field, rink, pool, gym or track or on the way back, at breakfast, and so on. It is tough not to, but it is a lot tougher for children to be inundated with advice, pep talks, and often critical instruction. 4. Teach them to enjoy the thrill of competition, to be "out there trying", to be working to improve their skills and attitudes. Help them develop the feel for competing, for trying hard, for having fun. 5. Try not to re-live your athletic life through your children in a way that creates pressure. You fumbled too, you lost as well as won. You were frightened, you backed off at times, you were not always heroic. Don't pressure them because of your lost pride. 6. Don't compete with the coach. You both have clearly defined roles that should complement each other. Encourage your child to respect their coach...they will learn more in the process. 7. Don't compare the skill, courage, or attitudes of your children with other members of the team, at least within their hearing distance. 8. Get to know the coach so that you can be assured that his/her philosophy, attitudes, ethics, and knowledge are such that you are happy to have your children under his/her leadership. 9. Always remember children tend to exaggerate, both when praised and criticized. Temper your reaction and investigate before over-reacting. 10. Make a point of understanding courage, and the fact that it is relative. Some of us can climb mountains, and are afraid to fight. Some of us will fight, but turn to jelly if a bee approaches. Everyone is frightened in certain areas. Explain that courage is not the absence of fear, but a means of doing something in spite of fear or discomfort. The job of the parent of an athletic child is a tough one, and it takes a lot of effort to do it well. It is worth all the effort when you hear your youngster say, "My parents really helped...they are the best!" Florida Region of USA Volleyball US Highway 441 Eustis, FL T: (352) W:

19 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club GRIEVANCE POLICY & PROCEDURES Knowing when and how to communicate with your athlete s coach is a concern for almost every parent at some time during the season. Most often, the concern is how to inquire about issues surrounding playing time. SWSVB has always tried to encourage the athlete to talk to the coach when she/he has a problem with her/his playing time. If the athlete is unsure or unclear about what the coach expects from her/him, either in practice or in competition, the appropriate action is for the athlete to communicate with the coach as to what she/he needs to do to get more opportunities to play in matches or at another position. When parents have a problem that is specific to their own athlete, we also encourage them to speak first to the coach. However, coaches WILL NOT discuss coaching decisions. Coaching decisions include, among other things, specific match decisions (who played when, who was subbed in/out and when, etc.). Playtime is a very complex determination. It includes the coach s opinion, the athlete s ability, the athlete s potential, the team s needs at the moment, the momentum of the game, and the team s needs for the future. The coach will not be required to defend his/her thought process or conclusions in these determinations, and it is improper for a parent to make such a request. In addition, SWSVB instructs coaches not to discuss any athlete other than the parent s own or the actions of any other SWSVB coach. If you, as a parent, have legitimate concerns about a coach, other than your athlete s coach, or with an athlete other than your own, you must address the Club Director or Board Members. POLICY ORDER: 1. The athlete should first speak to the coach about the matter. If the matter remains unresolved or the athlete has a reasonable concern that speaking to the coach will not resolve the matter, then move on to step The parents should speak or meet with the coach. Parents and/or the athlete should contact the coach via the telephone to set up a meeting time (not during a tournament). A parent should never approach a coach at a tournament. We have instructed the coaches to follow the 24 Hour Rule, to refuse to discuss any controversial matter, and to refer the parent to the Club Director. The coach will then walk away. The recommended time for a parent to schedule a meeting is usually before or immediately following a scheduled practice. If the matter remains unresolved or if the parent has a reasonable concern that speaking with the coach will not resolve the matter, then go to step 3. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 18 of 30

20 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club GRIEVANCE POLICY & PROCEDURES cont'd. 3. The parent may speak to the Club Director and request a meeting with the coach and Club Director together. In certain situations, SWSVB may request the athlete to also attend. Meetings should be previously arranged. Meetings will not take place at a tournament site. The Club Director will not engage in discussions about coaching decisions. 4. If the parent or athlete is not satisfied by the action of the Club Director, they may request, in writing, that the Board of Directors review the matter. 5. Refunds and Deposits: Upon making any SWSVB team, at a regular or supplemental tryout, there is a non-refundable deposit (depending upon the team) due to secure the spot. Subsequent refund of any club fees is based on the number of players per team and given for medical reasons ONLY. All refunds are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. All final decisions are determined by the Board of Directors. 6. Any dispute with the Club must be submitted to the Board of Directors in writing, including the date of incident or injury, doctor's notes (including type and length of disability), and the duration of club participation. All disputes which include complete documentation as previously stated will be considered. 7. All issues or disputes, regardless of the nature or source, must follow the previously detailed club Policy Order as stated in numerals 1-4 above. OTHER POLICIES REGARDING GRIEVANCES WITH SWSVB: 1. SWSVB will NOT tolerate hostile, aggressive confrontations between a parent and any official, coach, athlete, or another parent, whether the confrontation is within the Club or not. Violation of this policy may result in the athlete(s) being dismissed from SWSVB. 2. It is inappropriate for an athlete or parent to approach other SWSVB members about a problem the athlete or parent is having with an SWSVB coach. Asking uninvolved persons to take sides in an issue is unfair to the third party and to the Club. For the psychological health of the teams and the Club as a whole, grievances need to be handled between the parties involved and the decision makers in the situation. Remember...Competitive team athletics, by nature alone, create situations where everyone may not be happy all of the time. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 19 of 30

21 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club GRIEVANCE POLICY & PROCEDURES cont'd. 3. Any member who is approached and asked to listen to or to express an opinion about matters between two other parties in the Club is strongly encouraged to refer the complaining party to take the matter up with either the coach, Club Director, or Board of Directors. 4. Any member who, as a third party, hears remarks or stories about SWSVB, its employees or its policies, that cause the member to be concerned, is encouraged to call the Club Director or Board of Directors immediately to determine the facts or to alert the Club administration to a situation of which it may be unaware. By the time the story gets to a third or fourth party, it frequently bears little resemblance to the truth or to the facts of the situation. It is also detrimental to the athlete and disruptive to the team to complain to the athlete about the coach, the coach s style, or the SWSVB policies. If you, as a parent, are unhappy or concerned about any matter, address the party in control. If the athlete is unhappy, your child needs to address the appropriate party. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 20 of 30

22 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club HELPFUL TOURNAMENT HINTS FOR NEW VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS We are so glad you have chosen to be a part of Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club (SWSVB)! Since going to out-of-town tournaments is a new experience for you, here are a few helpful hints and information regarding this experience. We are committed to serving you and your child and welcome questions and comments. Please feel free to contact us any time. Lodging: SWSVB blocks hotel rooms to ensure they are available for you. However, you are not required to stay at the hotel of our choice or the hotel recommended by the tournament UNLESS it is a requirement to enter a tournament. Players are expected to arrive at their hotel the evening before the tournament, typically a Friday night. However, if your child does not play until the afternoon wave, you may choose to travel in the morning. Please remember that your child MUST ARRIVE at the venue ready to play one (1) hour prior to game or officiating time. Traveling: It is the responsibility of the parent to bring their child to the venue or to make arrangements with another parent. Players are not allowed to drive themselves to out-of-town tournaments. Carpooling is encouraged to and from the venues as parking can be an issue. Players should travel to and from the venue in the same vehicle all weekend. This helps prevent anyone being left behind. Safety: No player should ever walk around by themselves, hotel included. Safety is a priority for our players, so please help keep our players safe. In addition, to help prevent injury, players should never walk around barefoot at the hotel or venue. Tournament Play: The first day is divided into a morning wave and an afternoon wave. Your child s coach will let them know what time they need to arrive at the venue; our Club policy is one (1) hour before play time. The first day of competition will consist of Pool Play. Typically, your child s team will be in a pool of 4 teams which will play each other for the day. You will play on the same court all day; you will have to referee/officiate at least one match; and you will have a rest period. The rest period is usually a time to eat a meal. The second day (or last day) of competition is single elimination. The standing of the team on the last day of competition is determined on how well the team does the first day. The team keeps playing until they lose. If the team loses, they must referee/officiate the next match, after which they are free to go home after the coach releases them. All players must stay to the end even if they are not refereeing/officiating. We always arrive as a team and leave as a team. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 21 of 30

23 Southwest Sunset Volleyball Club HELPFUL TOURNAMENT HINTS FOR NEW VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS cont'd. Team Parent: It can be helpful if each team has a Team Parent or two for overnight tournaments. The Team Parent is typically responsible for the meals at the playing venue and team water. The Team Parent purchases the food and then collects an equal portion from each player to cover the cost. The Team Parent has two (2) options for getting the food to the tournament: 1. Bring a big cooler to the gym loaded with lunch foods, snacks, and water for the day. Set out lunch for the players and coaches, so they can eat during their rest time. 2. Setup lunch foods in a room and let the players make their lunches before leaving the hotel. The players pack a gallon-size Ziploc baggie with their lunches and snacks and keep in their backpacks. Also have the players put several waters (enough for the entire day of pool play) in their backpacks. This option only works if all players are staying at the same hotel. Most venues do not allow coolers in the gym. Some venues will have designated rooms and/or areas for coolers. Others only have outdoor storage of coolers; therefore, it is always good to bring a few blankets for everyone to sit on if outside. If your team decides to forego a Team Parent, everyone is responsible for their own food at the venue. Most tournaments will have food to purchase, or you can bring your own. Breakfast: If a hotel serves breakfast, we take advantage of it. If not, you re on your own or the Team Parent can coordinate this. Eating a meal prior to arriving at the venue is very important and highly recommended. Leisure: If there is time, the team will do a fun activity together. We try to keep these activities inexpensive, so it s not a financial burden on anyone. The coach and players will decide what to do and have fun as a team. Parents are always welcome to join them; however, it is not necessary, as long as there is enough transportation and supervision. Uniforms: VERY IMPORTANT! Please make sure your child has her/his entire uniform before leaving home for the tournament. Before getting into the car, ask a few simple questions: Do you have your backpack? Do you have your jerseys? (If a jersey is forgotten, it may result in your daughter not playing. If items are forgotten, it can be very expensive or impossible to replace.) Do you have your spandex? Do you have your socks? Do you have your volleyball shoes? Do you have your knee pads? Do you have your warm-ups? Chain of Command: See Grievance Policy and Procedures for details. For administration questions or issues, please speak with the Club Director. SWSVB Parent/Player Handbook Page 22 of 30

24 FLORIDA REGION OF USA VOLLEYBALL PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE US Highway 441 Eustis, FL Tel: (352) Fax: (352) Consolidated Corporate Documents Copyright Florida Region of USA Volleyball All Rights Reserved

25 PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE FLORIDA REGION PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE I. REGIONAL STRUCTURE The Florida Region has a board of directors who oversee all of the region s volleyball activity. The officers who serve on the board are from a diverse membership group within the region. This guarantees that every faction of the region s membership has direct, voting representation upon the board. The Junior Division of the Florida Region is composed of two entities: The Junior Forum (JF) and the Junior Administrative Board (JAB). The JF is a recognized committee of the Florida Region with a direct charge to set forth policy for all junior operations. This body is chaired by the Commissioner. Although the primary decision making body for issues affecting the juniors, the JF does report to the Regional Board on many issues. The JF is comprised of one voting representative of each junior club volleyball program. The JAB of the JGA is a committee whose main responsibility is to act on emergency issues that take place between normally scheduled meetings. The JAB is comprised of: Indoor Chair (chair), Outdoor Chair, and the four Jr. Admin Board Representatives. The Executive Director serves as an Ad Hoc member of this committee. Each club organization within the Florida Region is an entity on its own. Every club operates under the auspices of USAV - Florida Region but is not part of it s corporation. Through the Florida Region, each club and its members are joined to USA Volleyball. The business structure (corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.) may vary from club to club and has no bearing on the club s status within the region. Regional Officers you may need or want to contact: COMMISSIONER (CEO) INDOOR CHAIR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (President) OUTDOOR CHAIR See the website, for current names of officers and contact information. II. PRE-SEASON CONTACT AND RECRUITING The Florida Region has adopted a policy to separate the year into two distinct seasons: The Contract Season and the Recruiting Season. The Contract Season is defined as the date of signing of the Player Commitment Form until the last day of competition of the Girl s Jr. Region Championships (GJRC) or the USA Volleyball Junior National Championships (JNC), whichever one is later. The Recruiting Season begins the day after the last day of competition of the FRC or the JNC s, whichever is later, to the day of signing of the Player Commitment Form. (The Player Commitment Form can be signed by a player starting September 1 st of the year in question.) The Florida Region highly recommends that contact by club directors and coaches, done in the Recruiting Season, be done on a limited and highly professional basis. Club Coaches should be considerate of high school competitions by asking the coach when is the best time, if any, to distribute their literature (See Section III. Literature used for the Recruiting of Players). No contact is allowed with signed players or parents during the Contract Season (no-contact policy). Contact being defined as any form of communication with a player or parent with the intent to recruit that player to participate at any level with a club, in the current or following year, including but not limited to practices, scrimmages and tournaments. If during the Contract Season a signed player or parent contacts a director of another club, or any agent of that club, and expresses Consolidated Corporate Documents Copyright Florida Region of USA Volleyball All Rights Reserved Page 49 of 80

26 interest to participate with that organization, the director is obligated to report such an incident to the player s current club director, as well as the appropriate Indoor Chair, Executive Director, or the Commissioner. It is recommended that this be done in writing for the purpose of maintaining proper records. The response of the director who was contacted by the player or parent must include and be limited to the following: 1.) An explanation of the no-contact policy as stated above. 2.) An explanation of that director s obligation to report such an incident and to whom. 3.) The recommendation that the player contact their current club director to discuss their concerns and options. Furthermore, the Florida Region Board of Directors recognizes that outdoor volleyball is attracting more junior players and has defined the start and stop dates for the Indoor and Outdoor seasons. Indoor Season (For Junior Girls) - From the Monday after the FHSAA state volleyball championships until which ever date is later for the junior player involved; 1) the last day of the Girl s Junior Regional championships if that is their team s last USAV competition., or 2) the last day of the USA Volleyball Junior National Championships if that is their team s last USAV competition. (Note: If an individual chooses to unaffiliated with an indoor club prior to the end of the Indoor Season it will be treated as a transfer and will follow the Florida Region club transfer guidelines in Section V TRANSFER POLICY.) Outdoor Season (For Junior Girls) - From the day following the last day of the girl s indoor junior season as defined above, until the Monday after the FHSAA state volleyball championships. The purpose for this season definition is to assist junior players that wish to play on different indoor and outdoor clubs. Since members can only be affiliated with one club at a time, players may switch from an indoor club to an outdoor club (or vice versa) based on the season definitions above. Unwanted Contact or Harassment of Players: (See Section III. Literature used for the Recruiting of Players). Any player or parent has the right to stop the recruiting process at any time. The decision to do this does not need to be based on harassment alone. If a player or parent has made the decision to play for a particular club long before the beginning of the season and wishes not to be contacted by other clubs, they should convey that to any person contacting them about joining another club -- preferably in writing. At that time, the party who contacted the player is obligated to cease all contact. If the contact continues, by any agent of the club,, the player or parent should contact the Executive Director or the Commissioner. The Florida Region will gladly step in to protect it s members from unwanted contact or harassment. However, the family or player must come forward with a written, formal complaint on which the region can take action. Verbal complaints are not sufficient to take any punitive action. Recruiting Guidelines & Penalties: 1. Definition of Recruiting To solicit players for the purpose of persuading them to tryout or play for a junior volleyball club. Solicitation can be performed by any of the following individuals: club directors, coaches, or anyone acting on behalf of a junior volleyball club. a. Acceptable Recruiting Methods The following methods are acceptable if initiated by a club representative: flyers, bulk s, press releases, newspaper ads, or any printed material that is distributed to the masses. The following methods are acceptable if initiated by the player or parent/guardian: telephone calls or private meetings to discuss the clubs programs and offerings. Documentation should be kept on file by the club representative denoting all player-initiated contact in the event a recruiting violation is filed with the Region Office. b. Unacceptable Recruiting Methods Telephone calls or private meetings (either in-person or electronically) initiated by a club representative. In-person visits initiated by a club representative at a FHSAA sanctioned practice or event other than to distribute written materials. Any one-on-one meetings between a club representative and a player. Verbal or written promises made by club representatives with regard to positions available or team placement. Verbal or written offers for full or partial scholarships to influence the decision making process. 2. Penalties The following penalties will be imposed on any club representative that is found guilty (by an Incident Review Committee) of violating the recruiting guidelines above. c. 1 st Offense $500 fine and 1 year probation from the date of the offense. d. 2 nd Offense $1,000 fine and 1 year suspension of membership from the date of the offense. Consolidated Corporate Documents Copyright Florida Region of USA Volleyball All Rights Reserved Page 50 of 80